Category: Land Extreme Sports

Adventure Sports Activities in Maldives

The beautiful island cluster of Maldives is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world. Almost all of Maldives luxury hotels, including the Naladhu Maldives have made excellent use of the exquisite beaches, turquoise waves and the delightful weather to create an unforgettable holiday experience. Aside from lounging in the tropical sun, Maldives and its luxury resorts offer travelers a fascinating selection of adventure sports.

Diving and snorkeling are among the most popular adventure sports in Maldives. Whether you are a beginner in search of lessons or an experienced diver, you have a chance to enjoy gorgeous underwater views of coral reefs and tropical fish around an island of your choice. The supplies and instructors for diving and snorkeling are readily available all around the islands. The crystal clear waters and the abundance of underwater flora and fauna will surely tempt you to return again and again.

If you are looking for the thrill of speed, waterskiing and windsurfing are available for your indulgence. Most of the Maldives islands are surrounded with large lagoons with the perfect conditions for windsurfing in complete safety. Beginners can seek professional help at the many watersport centers while experts can rent equipment to enjoy their sport. The Indian Ocean also offers a chance for surfing enthusiasts to catch some excellent waves that range from 3 -8 feet in height.

Fishing in the Maldivian waters is yet another adventurous activity offered in this exquisite destination. Those who come in search for big game and fast boats can cast their lines for jackfish, barracuda, giant tuna and sailfish among many other exotic species. After a long day of sun and waves, you can sit back and relax with a bit of night fishing under the stars, a sport unique to Maldives.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Water sports in Koh Samui, an expedition through the ocean for the adventurer in you

Patched artistically with tall green coconut trees and bordered by a coastline of white sandy beaches, Koh Samui is surrounded on all sides by an azure ocean that changes color from dawn to dusk just like the colourful flora and fauna hiding beneath them. The skies are often reflected in these near magical waters, giving the entire scenery an almost heavenly aura. However, this is not the only reason why one should make Koh Samui a must-see on their list as the abundant variety of water sports available make it well worth a stay too. When on this island, a good choice of accommodation among the many Koh Phangan resorts would be the Anantara Rasananda Koh Phangan Villa Resort & Spa. Located amidst lush greenery, this resort offers an interesting range of comfortable villas and recreational activities to choose from, along with easy access to a number of water sporting sites.

First on the list is snorkeling and diving, where one gets to swim with marine life and explore the famous crystal coves and coral bays surrounding the island. Popular spots for these activities would be Koh Tao and the Ang Thong Marine Park. If one wants to be Robinson Crusoe for a day, they can certainly do so by touring along the many islands of the Samui archipelago by a chartered yacht or on one of the many exciting sailing cruises and with waters rich and teeming with fish like in Koh Samui, it is almost an obligation for visitors to go on at least one game fishing trip.

Individuals who prefer a more hands-on form of exploration can try kayaking across and through the exotic forms of overhanging cliffs and caves, mostly at Angthong National Park and Coral Island. Jet skiing, stand-up paddling, kite boarding, and wind surfing too are available for the holidaying adrenaline aficionado. Finally, amusement parks like Coco Splash Water Park in Lamai and Aquapark in Chaweng offer an appealing choice of activities, rides, and slides for both children and adults.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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Discover the Adventure Capital of Southern Hemisphere

While Queenstown in New Zealand may be famous for its enchanting landscapes and laidback atmosphere, do not let this seemingly placid setting fool you; for it is here that you will also find a thrilling array of adventure activities that have led it becoming the adventure capital of the Southern Hemisphere. If you are looking for an ideal luxury hotel in New Zealand in the region from which to set off on your excursions, consider Anantara Vacation Club at Oaks Shores located by Lake Wakatipu. It is not only within easy reach of the Queenstown town centre, but areas such as The Remarkables, Arrowtown and Coronet Peak too.

The options for activities are seemingly endless in Queenstown; Lake Wakatipu is a great spot for a speedboat tour, kayaking excursions and fishing, while nature lovers can also take part in horse riding, biking and hiking, exploring magical landscapes, forests and mountains that have even been used as backdrops for films such as Lord of the Rings. For more adrenaline pumping action you can also feel the pure rush of experiencing the force of gravity firsthand as you plummet at exhilarating speeds when bungy jumping. Take to the skies on a paragliding excursion as you enjoy bird’s eye views of Mother Nature decked in all her finery, though for unforgettable aerial vistas, you can always try skydiving! Not to be forgotten are the many ski outings on offer in and around Queenstown with The Remarkables, Coronet Peak and Cardrona providing plenty of opportunities for skiing and snowboarding between June and October.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Quad Bike Adventures

Skimming over the sands of Wahiba Desert on a powerful quad bike is just the ticket for all adrenaline junkies. Just one of the things to do in Oman quad biking is part of the action adventures to be enjoyed here. Those seeking true Bedouin comforts and adventure right on the dunes should check out the Desert Nights Camp for an authentic taste of desert comforts.

Located within the golden dunes of Wahiba this lavish permanent campsite will fill your senses with the romance and mystery of the desert. Fragrances of frank incense and myrrh waft across the Bedouin settings as you relax in the well-appointed and elegant tent accommodation. Five star luxuries are available in the double tented suites, family tented suites and standard rooms with en-suite bathroom. The resort can accommodate up to 64 guests and offers the best of dining together with a variety of desert excursions and adventure sports.

No desert adventure is complete until you experience the thrill of quad biking across the Wahiba sands. Gorgeous fiery skies and the never ending desert add to this ethereal adventure. The powerful bikes will definitely satisfy your craving for action as you rev up a steep dune.

The Wahiba offers many activities such as camel safaris, sand boarding, trekking on dunes and dune bashing. After an exhilarating day of quad biking you can visit the marvellous and colourful souks of Oman for great shopping opportunity, explore authentic Bedouin homes and soak in some culture with a visit to the Old Fort in Mantrib.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Rock climbing in Phuket: Explore the Limestone Trail

Thailand’s island retreat of Phuket is renowned for its pristine beaches and majestic rock formations. With most parts of the island being covered by mountainous terrains spanning from the island’s north to its south, it is not surprising that the name ‘Phuket’ derives from Thai word for mountain. The island’s towering mountain range offers breathtaking views of Phuket’s coastline and is popular among rock climbing enthusiasts who can also enjoy Phuket Luxury Accommodation among other lodging options.

Phuket’s mountains and cliffs have much to offer both amateur and experienced rock climbers. The best example of the diversity that Phuket offers rock climbers is found at Tonsai in Railay Beach, where its high limestone cliffs is a world renown rock climbing destination with a host of trails that cater to beginners and experienced climbers. To the north of Phuket lies Phang Nga Bay which hosts impressive limestone mountains that offer climbers a more peaceful and yet equally memorable rock climbing experience. Here, both the mainland and the beach of Koh Yao Noi offer several routes that cater to the adventurous rock climber. The Phang Nga Bay, located near Point Yamu by COMO Phuket is frequented by tourists who visit the beach to marvel at the forty limestone islands that rise 300-400 meters above the sea. Indeed the coastal belt ranging from Phuket’s Phra Nang Cave Beach to Railay East beach remain popular among rock climbers who find their efforts rewarded by the commanding views of Phukhet’s shores.

One of Phuket’s most beautiful beaches is found in the Hat Tham Phra Nang area which is encircled by a high limestone cliff that contains the legendary Tham Phra Nang Nok (Outer Princess Cave) that is believe to be home to the mythical Sea princess. Rock climbing is necessary to visit this site which also contains a hidden ‘ Holy Princess Pool’ found on the side of the mountain while also offering panoramic views of the surrounding beaches and rocky islands from the mountain’s summit.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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Diving Safaris in the Maldives

One of the hottest spots on the planet for diving safaris, the Maldives provides countless hours of underwater exploration for intrepid divers looking to uncover the secrets of the deep. A convenient option would be to stay at a Maldives resort such as Anantara Dhigu Resort & Spa Maldives which not only offers half and full day diving safaris, but also gives guests access to the Aquafanatics Diving Centre where one can get PADI certification too.

Diving safaris in the Maldives generally offer well trained guides who will accompany you on your adventures beneath the waves. Apart from day safaris, there are also overnight trips that take place on what are known as liveaboards that come with accommodation too. Amongst the well known dive sites in the country are Girifushi Thila, Lion’s Head, Kuda Haa and Banana Reef, while wrecks such as the Maldives Victory are popular as well. On your excursions you can expect to see a wide range of colourful coral along with a fascinating variety of marine life including spotted eagle rays, napoleon wrasses, tunas, butterfly fish, blue-striped snappers, gray reef sharks and manta rays. Such safaris help you truly appreciate the stunning marine biodiversity of the Maldives.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

PADI Scuba Diving Courses: For the Bold and Brave at Heart

Maldives is a premier scuba diving destination in the world, with a reason. The clear waters and the perfect weather conditions combine to create one of the safest and best places in the face of the earth to practise the fascinating sport of scuba diving. The bonus on offer is certainly the rich and vibrant marine life the seas of Maldives is teeming with, giving one breathtaking vistas to gaze at while gliding under water. As you stay at luxury Maldives hotels such as Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas take time to experience the breathtaking delights of scuba diving to enjoy a holiday to remember. Further put your holiday time to best use by enrolling in a PADI Scuba Diving Course to gain a skill that you will proudly possess for the rest of your life.

Maldivian waters are smooth and immensely beautiful and are more so when experienced up close while scuba diving. The sensation you will enjoy as gravity loses its power over you and you float in the eerie silence as fish swim by unafraid will make you fall so much in love with the sea that you will wish for sure to return for more. Scuba diving, a sport that is not reserved for the professionals and wildly dashing, can be experienced even in the tender years of 10 provided that a good health backs up the enthusiasm.

Maldives offers ample opportunities to engage in the sessions of a PADI Scuba Diving Course given the plethora of water sport centres that fringe the beaches. Some of the many hotels that are found in Maldives also offer courses to those who wish to learn so the opportunities for learning are certainly immense. When booking sessions always keep your timelines as well as budgets in mind and make sure you select packages and courses that can accommodate both. Several theory classes will also have to be attended to gain a title in the sport so keep your holiday diaries well planned and ready once you decide to embark on this blissful journey.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry. Google+

Explore Breathtaking Abu Dhabi on an Engaging Horse Ride across the Desert

Visitors in search of a stylish hotel in Abu Dhabi should look no further than the elegant Eastern Mangroves Resort & Spa. Offering guests a scenic desert hideaway with its very own spa facility this luxurious rest is perfect for holidaymakers as well as business travellers.

As a former fishing hamlet that has blossomed in to one of the Emirates’ thriving crown jewels Abu Dhabi is an island that is in touch with its roots as well as its modern day successes. Frequented by globetrotters from around the world the intriguing desert landscapes of this island holiday Mecca is what sets it apart from other nations bordering the Persian Gulf. Although dune bashing, mountain biking and camel rides are the hot pick activities among seasoned visitors to the Islamic nation, the venue also enjoys a reputation as an equestrian hub in the region with its fair share of facilities where one can saddle up.
The most popular riding establishments in Abu Dhabi include the Al Ain Equestrian Shooting & Golf Club, The Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, the Dhabian Equestrian Club and the Al Forsan International Sports Resort while a number of resorts and five star hotels in the island also offer horse riding excursions in some of Abu Dhabi’s most exotic terrains. Desert riding expeditions are the most popular tour packages among tourists as the excursions offer visitors a different vantage point from which to discover Abu Dhabi and its natural beauty.

Morning and evening horse riding excursions are available to those who wish to take in the sights and sounds of the vast desert terrains that dot the city. Setting off with a guide who will keep visitors informed on the geographical and cultural significance of the landscapes on the tour route riders can combine the joy of horse riding and a desert adventure in to one all encompassing tour package. Relaxing as well as invigorating a horse ride across the desert is a once in a lifetime experience that is not just reserved for riders with some level of riding time under their belt but for novices and curious corporate travellers eager to make the most of their free time in Abu Dhabi.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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A breath of Fresh Air

Abu Dhabi has significant mangrove forests around islands and sheltered coastal zones. While some new planting of mangrove trees were necessary to improve their condition, a great part of the 70 sq miles of mangrove forests spread along its 547 km shoreline is naturally occurring. The nutrient rich waters among the trees provide habitats for birds and nurseries for coastal fish species. Mangrove kayaking can be enjoyed at Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara, an Abu Dhabi resort on Yas Island.

Leaving the city behind and taking a kayaking trip deep into the mangroves, paddling along coastal channels and among low hanging branches introduces many to a different side of the emirate. Although the mangrove forests are close to the city, it is another world out here. The predominant noises are the dip of the paddle in the water, the call of birds and the soft sounds of fish moving about in the water.

Kayakers can take advantage of specially tailored trips to experience this exceptional natural environment. A trip to navigate the Eastern and Yas Island mangroves for instance takes about one to two hours. However the experience is dependent on tides. High tide allows kayakers to move in the shallows under the mangrove canopy but as the shore is inundated there is no shore life. Low tide allows access to the bigger channels and little or no access to the mangrove forest. However paddlers can observe life on the exposed shore. Avid birders will find both expeditions fascinating. There is also a moonlight option but this is understandably only for expert kayakers. Taking an eco mangrove tour is a great way to learn about the mangrove ecosystem and its wildlife. Experienced kayakers can take a three hour trip to Abu Dhabi Island and lunch on shore or circumnavigate it and camp overnight. Other kayaking experiences include catch and release fishing, a paddle along the Umm Al Quwain coastline known for its marine life including black tipped reef sharks, green turtles, flamingos and storks in the summer and dolphins and dugongs during the cooler months.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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Jungle Tales

Phra Taew is a forested mountain range in the north of Phuket with a central peak rising 450 meters, the highest point on the island. Still in pristine condition, it is an excellent example of a rain forest in South East Asia. The forest is both a recreation area and a class room that can impart knowledge on the fragile eco system and how best to preserve it. The fauna here include a herd of barking deer, bands of monkeys and gibbons released into the wild from the nearby Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre, wild boar, small mammals such as the Malayan Black Giant Squirrel, amphibians, reptiles and many species of migratory and native birds. The flora comprises of tropical evergreen trees, bamboo, palms and ferns. Bang Pae waterfall is its most prominent water feature. The pools it forms are popular with hikers seeking to cool off. Hikes to Khao Phra Taew Wildlife Park can be planned from Anantara Phuket Villas, a popular Phuket beach resort.

The wildlife park has a 600 meter and a two km easy to follow hiking trails from Bang Pae waterfall to Ton Sai waterfall. Visitors keen on a wildlife experience can hire a guide at the information centre near the Bang Pae waterfall or set off on their own. Although the trail is not arduous some scrambling over fallen trees and rocks are involved. As the trail goes up the mountain visitor will observe a change in the flora. The Wild Animal Rescue Foundation of Thailand or WARF also offers several hiking options. These treks include the services of ecology lecturers and trackers and offer the best ways to see its fauna and understand its flora. The hikes are categorized as a Soft Jungle Experience which is a half day hike, Nocturnal Life a night trip, gibbon trekking day trips and overnight camping trips. Having the services of a tracker is the best way to see wildlife during daytime. Night trips offer opportunities to see a range of amphibians, reptiles and several small nocturnal creatures.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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